Scrum and Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe®️), both function under the Agile values and principles. Though there are very small differences between Scrum and SAFe®, it is very important to have a clear understanding of the same. Scrum is a framework that is based on the values and principles of Agile, whereas SAFe® is a framework that implements Scrum at an enterprise level.
Quick Differences between Scrum and SAFe® :
The major difference between the two depends on the way they choose to handle their work. In simple words, Scrum is basically used to organise small teams, while SAFe®️ is used to organise the whole organization. Moreover, Scrum tends to miss many important aspects that SAFe®️ manages to contain.
While Scrum is an Agile way to manage software development, SAFe®️ is an enterprise-level establishment method.
Scrum sounds simple in concepts but is hard to execute from the core.
Scrum:
Scrum is an iterative method of product development that breaks down a project into small segments, which are then completed by small cross-functional teams within a defined period of time. It focuses on a regular rhythm of delivery and relies on cross-functional teams, some specific supporting roles and a set of ceremonies to complete the delivery of the project.
To plan, organize, administer, and optimize a process, Scrum heavily depends on three roles:
- Product Owner: He is responsible to plan, organize, and make communicating with the company.
- Scrum Master: It is the responsibility of a Scrum Master to look after the job during the sprints.
- Scrum Team: The main objective of the Scrum Team is the execution of the prescribed job for each sprint.
SAFe®️:
It stands for ‘Scalable Agile Framework’. It is an approach that consumes the whole enterprise and not just a team. SAFe®️ scales Scrum to make it work for bigger enterprises and has bigger teams working on the same product than what Scrum recommends. SAFe®️ has described three levels in an organisation, viz Portfolio, Program, and Team. This structure is widely accepted in large organizations as it has a tiered approach for delivery of its work. Unlike Scrum, it focuses on retrospect and releases planning as well, so that improvements can be made.
The three important parts of SAFe® are:
- Lean Product Development
- Agile Software Development
- System Thinking
To summarize, Agile is a mindset, a way of working; Scrum is a framework based on Agile values and principles, while SAFe®️ is a scaling framework that implements Scrum at an enterprise level.
Conclusion:
The major difference between Scrum and SAFe®️ agile methods lie in the way they take into practice. SAFe®️ has been developed in such a manner that it fills the gap that Scrum had left behind. SAFe®️ focuses on release planning and retrospect for improvement, which Scrum lacks.
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